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Esophageal perforations masked by steroids

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Abdominal Imaging Aims and scope

Abstract

Esophageal perforation is usually an acute, life-threatening event, and its diagnosis can be established on the basis of obvious clinical and radiographic findings. This article describes two cases whereby symptoms of esophageal perforations were masked by concomitant administration of steroids, thus causing marked delay in diagnosis and treatment. Esophageal rupture should be considered when patients receiving steroids develop unexplained fever with pleural effusion or pneumomediastinum, particularly following instrumentation or forceful retching.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Section of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Medical School, Chicago, Illinois, USA

    Linas M. Klygis M.D., Rome Jutabha, Michael B. McCrohan & Arvydas D. Vanagunas

Authors
  1. Linas M. Klygis M.D.
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  2. Rome Jutabha
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  3. Michael B. McCrohan
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  4. Arvydas D. Vanagunas
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Klygis, L.M., Jutabha, R., McCrohan, M.B. et al. Esophageal perforations masked by steroids. Abdom Imaging 18, 10–12 (1993). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00201691

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00201691

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